Parmigiani Fleurier’s Three Timepieces Nominate for the Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève 2017

The Grand Prix d’Horlogerie de Genève has revealed its selection of models in the 12 distinct watchmaking categories. In a rare achievement, three Parmigiani Fleurier timepieces figure among the nominations – the Tonda Métropolitaine Sélène Galaxy in the “Ladies” category; the Tonda Chronor Anniversaire in the “Chronograph” category; and the Toric Hémisphères Rétrograde in the “Time Travel” category.

Toric Hemispheres Retrograde
The Toric Hémisphères Rétrograde features two time zones, each accurate to the nearest minute – a rarity on the GMT watch market. To guarantee this twofold accuracy, the PF317 calibre is equipped with a module which controls the second time zone which can be indexed to the main movement, or disconnected from it, enabling the second time zone to be adjusted independently to the nearest minute.

This movement also features an instant retrograde calendar which is indicated by the third central hand. In terms of its style, the distinctive feature of the Toric line is the bezel which features alternating knurling and gadroons, inspired by the structure of an Ancient Greek column. This was Michel Parmigiani’s first design; he conceived it to be faithful to the harmonious proportions of the golden ratio.

Tonda Chronor Anniversaire
An integrated chronograph is one of the most delicate complications to produce industrially as it relies on kinematics with a chain of actions, each one determining and triggering the next, and each sequence precisely synchronised and adjusted. The Tonda Chronor Anniversaire, launched to celebrate Parmigiani Fleurier’s 20th anniversary, speaks volumes about the potential of its independent manufacture.

The hand-wound PF361 movement has a chronograph, a split-second function and a large date – all on the same main plate. This movement is made entirely from pink gold and oscillates at a frequency of 5 Hertz (36,000 vibrations per hour). It bears Michel Parmigiani’s signature, engraved on the barrel bridge. The dial in Grand Feu enamel is the timepiece’s crowning glory.

Tonda Metropolitaine Selene Galaxy
The Tonda Métropolitaine Sélène Galaxy is a feminine piece designed to represent the lunar phases. This special edition features a dial in aventurine with small inclusions of metal in its midnight-blue glass, reminiscent of the Milky Way. Set against this cosmic background, the moon phase is revealed in all its glory.

Its surface has been formed by applying successive layers of transfers to create a highly convincing representation of the lunar craters. The bezel is set with 72 brilliant-cut diamonds, totalling ~0.51 carat, which extend the brilliance of the aventurine all the way to the case.